Case Study: Expedited Auction Purchase Completed in One Week

Our property team was instructed by a client who had successfully secured a repossession property at auction. Auction purchases are inherently time-sensitive, with strict deadlines for completion. In this case, the client required the transaction to be completed within just eight days from file opening to completion – an exceptionally tight turnaround.

 Challenge

This transaction presented multiple challenges:

• Limited timeframe for due diligence and completion.
• Repossession property: no title guarantee and minimal information available about the property, increasing the risk profile.
• Potential defects in title or property condition that had to be identified and advised upon quickly.
• High stakes for the client, as failure to complete within the deadline could result in financial penalties and loss of the property.

The client needed clear, practical advice and efficient handling of all legal aspects to ensure the purchase could be completed on time.

Approach

As the instructed property trainee solicitor, I:

• Opened and onboarded the file immediately, ensuring all client details and requirements were captured without delay.
• Reviewed the auction pack thoroughly, despite the absence of title guarantees and limited property information.
• Identified and advised on defects in title and documentation, ensuring the client understood the risks associated with a repossession purchase.
• Provided comprehensive advice to the client on obligations, remedies, and potential future implications.
• Liaised proactively with all parties — including the seller’s solicitors, the client, and relevant third parties — to expedite enquiries, and completion arrangements.
• Ensured compliance with all auction conditions while safeguarding the client’s interests.

Outcome

• The transaction was successfully completed within one week, meeting the auction deadline.
• All defects and risks were adequately advised upon, allowing the client to make informed decisions despite the lack of title guarantee.
• The client secured ownership of the property without delay or penalty.

Key Takeaway

This case demonstrates our team’s ability to deliver results under extreme time pressure and in complex circumstances. By combining thorough legal analysis with proactive communication and efficient case management, we ensured a seamless auction purchase of a repossession property — despite the absence of title guarantees and limited information.